Read vv.17-43 gives Stephen's summary of Israel in Egypt and the events of their Exodus from Egypt. The story was obviously well known to the Jews, celebrated in the Passover in Jerusalem. It might be interesting to list the particular events to which Stephen refers in his summary of Exodus through Numbers. In the Stephen's summary, who are the "bad persons" and the "good persons"? What does the speech make of Moses? What is the role of God? Does it criticize the Law?

Vv. 44-50: What does Stephen say about the Tabernacle and the Temple? Does he actually criticize the Temple? On what basis does Stephen make sure that God is not confined to the Temple? Has he said anything necessarily controversial yet?

Vv. 51-53 Stephen's tone suddenly changes. What does he do with his audience in relationship to the story that he has told? How one responds to the speech depends on with whom one identifies? How can we identify with the audience? Why might it be important for us to hear Stephen's speech from their perspective? Is the Jewish leaders fault keeping the Law or not keeping the Law?

VV. 54-56: Note the way the story moves back and forth between Stephen and "they"? What is the difference? Is Stephen angry? Are they?

Vv. 57-60: Why exactly do they "stone" Stephen? Why do they "stop their ears"? Note the relationship between the death of Jesus and the death of Stephen. What does Stephen's death tell you about Jesus' death?

It might be interesting to discuss again exactly what the issue is that leads to Stephen getting stoned, as well as a comparison between his disposition and the mobs. Has Stephen failed or succeeded? What does Stephen's death have to say about our life?

I hope this helps your discussion. As you can see, we are part of a rather controversial people. Maybe the key is keeping the controversy at the right point and sustaining the right disposition within these controversies.